Permission was granted for a change of use from residential to a children’s home at Leafy Grove House in May despite very strong objections from residents and Councillors. However, the permission will not now be implemented.

Cllrs Alexa Michael and Josh Coldspring-White, who spoke against permission at the planning meeting, said:

“We are very happy and relieved to hear that the children’s home use will not be going ahead. The location was totally unsuitable for use as a home for vulnerable children. Leafy Grove House belongs in a semi-rural location with poor public transport links and a lack of facilities for young people. Traffic runs at high speed through Heathfield Road. It would also have meant the loss of a family house. We hope that Leafy Grove House will now continue to be used as a family home. Thank you to all the residents who worked so hard to oppose the proposal.”